National Civics Bee Coming to the Fredericksburg Region
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce will host the local competition, and is seeking sponsors to help expand the program.
By Adele Uphaus
MANAGING EDITOR AND CORRESPONDENT
Email Adele
You’ve heard of spelling bees, but have you heard of the National Civics Bee?
Presented by the Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, it’s an annual nonpartisan competition designed to inspire middle school students to engage in civics and make a difference in their communities—and Fredericksburg area students will have a chance to participate next year.
The Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce is hosting the local branch of the competition starting now. Middle school students (in 6th, 7th, or 8th grades) are invited to submit a short essay on any civic issue of their choice through February 3, 2026.
The essays will be judged by a panel of local leaders and winning writers will advance to the Fredericksburg Regional Civics Bee, a live, quiz-style competition scheduled for April 15.
Winners of the regional competition will receive cash prizes—$500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $125 for third place—and will participate in the Virginia State Finals in Williamsburg. Winners of that competition will advance to the National Bee in Washington, D.C., held in the fall of 2026.
The regional Chamber of Commerce is seeking sponsors to “help expand the program, increase prize opportunities, and support civic education throughout the region,” according to a press release.
More information about how students, parents, educators, and potential sponsors can get involved is at the Chamber’s website.
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My son participated in geography and spelling bees in his elementary school days. Bees are fun--I am glad a new one is coming to our area!